Faf du Plessis: South Africa's Reliable Captain and World-Class Batter
Faf du Plessis led South Africa through a difficult era with composure, scoring over 4,000 Test runs and becoming one of T20 cricket's most sought-after batters globally.
Francois du Plessis — universally known as Faf — was one of South Africa's most dependable batters and captains of the 2010s. Born in Pretoria in 1984, du Plessis made his Test debut in 2012 at Adelaide and immediately showed the quality that would define his career: a match-saving 78 not out on debut helped South Africa draw the Test. He went on to score 4,163 Test runs at an average of 40.02, including 10 centuries. As captain from 2016 to 2018, he led the Proteas with calm authority during a transitional period, winning series against Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. His fielding — particularly in the covers — was among the best in the world during his prime, and he was renowned for his athleticism and safe hands. After retiring from Test cricket in 2021, du Plessis became one of T20 cricket's most valuable franchise players, captaining Chennai Super Kings in the IPL, RCB and competing in the SA20, BBL, ILT20 and PSL.
Test and ODI Career
Du Plessis's Test record is characterised by match-saving innings and consistent contributions in difficult conditions. His 118 not out against Australia at Adelaide in 2012-13, scored over nearly eight hours, stands among the finest debut series innings by any South African. He scored Test centuries in England, India and Pakistan — always difficult away venues — and averaged above 45 in Tests played outside South Africa. In ODIs he scored 5,507 runs at 47.49 with 12 centuries, frequently anchoring the South African innings.
T20 Franchise Career
After stepping away from Test cricket, du Plessis became one of T20 cricket's most recognisable figures. He captained CSK in the IPL to multiple finals and won the IPL 2023 title with RCB. His T20I record of 1,528 runs at 35.54 understates his impact in franchise cricket, where he regularly opens the batting and sets platforms for powerful middle orders. Du Plessis's experience, fitness and adaptability have made him a leader in multiple franchise leagues well into his late thirties.
Frequently asked questions
How many Test centuries did Faf du Plessis score?
Faf du Plessis scored 10 Test centuries in 69 Tests, finishing with 4,163 runs at an average of 40.02. His debut innings of 78* against Australia in Adelaide in 2012 is regarded as one of the finest debut innings in South African cricket history.
When did Faf du Plessis captain South Africa?
Faf du Plessis captained South Africa across all formats from 2016 to 2018, having first taken over as Test captain in 2016 following Hashim Amla's resignation. He led the team through a transitional period and retired from international cricket in 2021.
What IPL teams has Faf du Plessis played for?
Faf du Plessis has played for Chennai Super Kings (multiple stints, winning the IPL in 2018, 2019 and 2021), Rising Pune Supergiants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (from 2022, winning in 2024). He captained RCB in 2022-2024.